“Brew Your Best Cup”- Coffee Brewing Workshop
Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm • Farm • Holualoa, Island of Hawaii • Hawaii
Packing & Hosts
Suitcase Tips and Local Voices
Packing Smart for Big Island Vacation Rentals
The Big Island's diverse climates and vacation rental amenities require thoughtful packing. Here's what local hosts wish their guests knew before arriving.
Climate Zones and Packing Strategy
☀️ Dry Side (Kona/Kohala)
- • Light, breathable fabrics
- • Sun protection is crucial
- • Minimal rain gear needed
- • Beach and pool focus
Temperature range: 75-85°F year-round
🌧️ Wet Side (Hilo/Volcano)
- • Layers for temperature changes
- • Quality rain jacket essential
- • Warm clothing for elevation
- • Hiking and nature focus
Temperature range: 65-80°F, cooler at elevation
Essential Items Checklist
🧴 Sun Protection (Non-Negotiable)
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide only
Wide-Brimmed Hat: Protects face and neck
UV Sunglasses: Reflect off water and lava rock
Rash Guard: For water activities and hiking
👟 Footwear for Every Terrain
Hiking Boots: Ankle support for lava rock
Water Shoes: Rocky beaches and tide pools
Flip-Flops: Rental lounging and easy beach access
🎒 Adventure Gear
Daypack: For hiking and beach days
Headlamp: Sunrise hikes and stargazing
Waterproof Bag: Phone and valuables protection
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, reduce plastic
Snorkel Gear: If you have a good fit
Portable Charger: Long days exploring
What NOT to Pack (Save Suitcase Space)
❌ Skip These Items
- • Beach towels (rentals usually provide)
- • Hair dryer (standard in most rentals)
- • Beach umbrellas (buy locally if needed)
- • Snorkel gear (rent for better fit)
- • Heavy beach chairs
🛒 Buy Locally Instead
- • Additional reef-safe sunscreen
- • Cheap flip-flops for rocky areas
- • Rain ponchos (if not hiking seriously)
- • Beach toys and boogie boards
- • Local snacks and treats
Voices from Local Hosts
We asked Big Island vacation rental hosts what they wish guests knew before arriving. Their insights can make your stay smoother and more enjoyable.
KM
Keoni Mahelona, Volcano Village Host
"Guests always underestimate how cool it gets at 4,000 feet elevation. Even in summer, you need a jacket for evenings. And please bring closed-toe shoes for hiking—the lava rock will destroy your flip-flops and your feet."
Pro tip: "I keep extra sweatshirts in the closet because so many guests arrive unprepared for the altitude."
TR
Tutu Rose, Holualoa Coffee Farm
"The best guests come ready to experience our way of life, not just photograph it. Bring comfortable clothes for farm work, an open mind for new flavors, and stories from your own home to share."
Cultural note: "I love when guests bring local treats from their hometown. It makes the exchange of aloha even sweeter."
JP
Jenna Palakiko, Pahoa Retreat Owner
"This area gets frequent rain showers. Pack quick-dry clothes and don't plan your whole itinerary around specific weather. The rain usually passes quickly, and the forest is most beautiful when it's misty."
Weather wisdom: "Hawaiian rain is warm and gentle. Don't let it scare you indoors—some of our best adventures happen in light rain."
DK
David Kawelo, South Kona Beach House
"The most prepared guests research what activities they want to do and pack accordingly. Snorkeling at Captain Cook requires different gear than hiking in Volcanoes National Park. One size doesn't fit all on this island."
Activity advice: "Make a rough itinerary before you pack. It helps you prioritize what you really need versus what you think you might need."
Last-Minute Shopping Guide
Forgot something essential? Here's where to find quality gear on the island without paying resort prices.
🛍️ Best Shopping Areas
- • Hilo: Target, Walmart, sporting goods stores
- • Kona: Costco (if member), Safeway, local surf shops
- • Waimea: Parker Ranch Store for local goods
- • Pahoa: Unique local shops and natural products
🏪 Local Specialties
- • Reef-safe sunscreen: Island Naturals, Whole Foods
- • Hiking gear: Hilo Surplus Store
- • Beach gear: Snorkel Bob's, local ABC stores
- • Local treats: KTA Super Stores, farmers markets
Remember: Packing is about enabling experiences, not just surviving the weather. Think about the memories you want to create and pack to support those adventures.
Complete Big Island Vacation Rental Guide
You've covered all the essentials—now start planning your authentic Big Island experience.
🎒 Essential Packing
- Sun Protection:Critical
- Hiking Boots:Important
- Layers:Elevation-dependent
- Rain Gear:Wet side essential
🌡️ Climate Zones
- Kona/Kohala: 75-85°F, dry
- Hilo/Volcano: 65-80°F, wet
- Elevation: Cooler, layers needed
🛒 Local Shopping
- Hilo: Target, Walmart
- Kona: Costco, Safeway
- Island Naturals: Reef-safe sunscreen
- Snorkel Bob's: Water gear
